Title: Code Name Verity
Author: Elizabeth Wein
Summary: Set in World War II, this story tells the tale of two young women and their harrowing experiences serving their country. Verity is a secret agent captured by the Gestapo after parachuting into Nazi-occupied France. She is given two options by her captors: reveal everything she knows about England’s defenses and her mission or face torture and an excruciating death. Verity believes she will die regardless of her decision, so what she must come to terms with is how much she is willing to reveal. Given paper and ink, she is tasked with betraying her country, yet what she puts down is so much more. In her writings, she tells the story of her captivity, her past life and how she became friends with Maddie, the pilot, who flew her into France and subsequently crashed. Her story is a tribute to friendship, a test of courage, and revealing look at how it feels to face the possibility of one’s own failings.
Who will like this book: Fans of historical fiction and strong female characters will love this emotionally charged story. That being said, this is really a book for anyone who appreciates a good story with amazing characters. Code Name Verity is a book you regretfully close after finishing and recommend to all your friends the next day.
If you like this, try this: The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak, The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow, Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
Recommended by: Jen, Fairfield Woods Branch Teen Librarian